Description
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe combines tender rotini pasta with savory ground beef in a rich, creamy garlic and Parmesan cheese sauce, making for a comforting and satisfying main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined later.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until fully browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Push the beef to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and beef broth, stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld together. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk or beef broth until desired consistency is reached.
- Rotini pasta is ideal for holding the sauce, but penne or fusilli are excellent alternatives.